Know in and out of PR in Canada
Canada is a popular destination for immigrants seeking permanent residence due to its high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, and numerous employment opportunities. To obtain permanent residence in Canada, individuals must apply through one of the various immigration programs offered by the Canadian government.
Express Entry program
One of the most common ways to obtain permanent residence in Canada is through the Express Entry program. This program is designed for skilled workers and offers a streamlined process for permanent residence. To qualify for the Express Entry program, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. Applicants are then assessed based on a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which takes into account factors such as age, language proficiency, education, and work experience. Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws held by the government.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Another option for obtaining permanent residence in Canada is through one of the various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Each province and territory in Canada has its own PNP, designed to meet the region’s specific economic and social needs. PNPs typically have different eligibility requirements and selection criteria than the federal immigration programs, so it is important to research the specific program in the province or territory of interest.
Other options for obtaining permanent residence in Canada include the Family Sponsorship Program, the Business Immigration Program, and the Quebec-selected Skilled Workers Program. Each program has its own eligibility requirements and selection criteria, so it is important to research which program best suits your circumstances.
Family Sponsorship Program
This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their eligible family members, including spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents. The sponsor must meet certain eligibility criteria and agree to financially support the sponsored person for a specific period.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program
This program is designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in Quebec. Candidates are assessed based on a points-based system that considers factors such as education, work experience, language skills, and other criteria.
Business Immigration Programs
Canada offers several business immigration programs, including the Start-up Visa Program, the Self-Employed Persons Program, and the Entrepreneur Program. These programs are designed for individuals who want to start or invest in a business in Canada.
Once an individual is granted permanent residence in Canada, they are able to live, work, and study anywhere in the country. Permanent residents also have access to social benefits such as healthcare, education, and retirement pensions. In addition, permanent residents are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship after living in Canada for a certain amount of time and meeting other eligibility criteria.
To maintain their permanent residence status, individuals must meet certain residency requirements. They must live in Canada for at least two years out of every five years and not commit any serious crimes or be a security risk to Canada.
FAQ regarding Canada PR
How are processing times calculated?
The IRCC processing times are measured based on how long it took to process 80% of applications in the past.
Your processing time starts the day IRCC receives your complete application and ends when they decide on it.
If you apply by mail
The processing time starts when your complete application arrives in the IRCC mail room.
If you apply online or in person
The processing time starts when you submit your application.
Can I lose my permanent resident status?
Yes, you can lose your permanent resident (PR) status.
If you haven’t been in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years, you may lose your PR status.
- Become a Canadian citizen,
- Give up (renounce) your PR status,
- Become inadmissible to Canada.
Permanent residents don’t have the same protections and privileges as Canadian citizens do. If you commit a serious offense as a PR, you may have to leave Canada permanently.
Should I include my family members in my permanent residence application?
You must include all your family members even if they are not accompanying you to Canada. Family members include:
- Spouse or partner
- Dependent children
- Dependent children of dependent children (grandchildren)
Also, for you to become a permanent resident, all your family members must pass a medical exam and background checks even if they are not coming to Canada with you.
If you don’t include all of them:
- you could be refused entry into Canada, and
- you may not be able to sponsor the family members you didn’t include in your application to come to Canada at a later date.
Can I leave Canada after obtaining my PR status?
A PR holder can leave Canada at any time. However, they must continue to meet their physical presence obligations in Canada to maintain their PR status.